Australia
defeat France 44-12 in Perpignan

A determined effort from France wasn't enough to withstand a polished performance from Australia, the Kangaroos running out comfortable winners by 44-12 at Perpignan's Stade Aime Giral on Saturday.

With the injured Darren Lockyer being sent home, it was left to new skipper David Gower and Scott Prince to control play while utility player Craig Wing was recalled into the side. Wide running second-rower Ben Creagh, 20, was on debut for the Kangaroos.

At half time, Australia held a 22-6 lead, doubling their tally after the break.

With several spots up for grabs in next Saturday's Tri-Nations showdown with Great Britain, the points kept coming for Australia during the second half.

Prince, who is battling with the injured Trent Barrett for the five-eighth spot, bagged a personal haul of 16 points with a try and six goals.

The French were forced to play without centre Teddy Fadaoui who was ruled out prior to kick off while playmaker Julian Rinaldi missed most of the second half.

France next play New Zealand on Friday in Toulouse. Australia take on a resurgent Great Britain in Hull next Saturday, a Kangaroos victory will keep the Lions out of the Tri-Nations final at Elland Road on November 26.